It’s not uncommon to see a company’s purpose statement presented on a plaque in a lobby—sometimes even etched in brass or written in beautiful calligraphy and framed behind glass. While the presentation is impressive, the reality is that in many cases, when you venture past the lobby and speak to the people who work in the business, they sadly have no idea that the purpose exists or what it means to them.

In contrast, the Purpose at Michelman, a 70-year-old Evergreen company, where I serve as President and CEO, is central to every decision we make and the essential thread that weaves our global business together.